Churchkhela, a delightful string of nuts enveloped in a luscious layer of thickened grape juice, stands out as the most iconic of all Georgian sweets. This delectable treat has transcended borders, finding its way into various countries across the Caucasus and the former USSR. Yet, its unique blend of natural flavors and subtle sweetness continues to make it a cherished emblem of Georgian cuisine.
The origins of churchkhela can be traced back to the Georgian region of Samegrelo, a fact that is even reflected in the etymology of the word itself. In Mingrelian, “chhur” translates to “cold,” while “chkher” means “hot.” This linguistic nuance beautifully encapsulates the two fundamental stages in the preparation of churchkhela: the threaded nuts are first dipped multiple times into a hot, sticky mixture known as felamushi, and then left to cool in the open air for several days.
While the recipe for churchkhela may seem straightforward due to its limited ingredients, the preparation process is remarkably intricate and time-consuming. The journey begins with boiling grape juice over medium heat for about 30 minutes, followed by a long simmering period lasting 10 to 12 hours. Once the juice is filtered, it undergoes evaporation to achieve a sugar content of 30-40%. To balance its acidity, marble flour or chalk is added. After allowing the felamushi to rest for 5-6 hours, any sediment is drained away. Only after completing these meticulous steps can the threads of nuts be immersed in the heated, thickened felamushi. This dipping process is repeated two to three times over the course of 2-3 hours. Finally, the candied nuts are hung by their ends on a rack, where they dry for 15-17 days. Remarkably, it takes an additional 2-3 months for the flavor of the felamushi to deepen, allowing the churchkhela to reach its peak taste.
You can find churchkhela throughout Georgia, from bustling bazaars to quaint grocery stores, supermarkets, and even wine boutiques. Its sweet flavor profile makes it an excellent pairing with tea or coffee. Packed with protein, vitamins, and calories, this nutritious treat will keep you satisfied for hours, making it an ideal snack for outdoor adventures. Plus, churchkhela travels exceptionally well and can be stored for months, making it a wonderful edible souvenir to share with friends and family back home.